Oil, acrylic, & mixed media on canvas

36″ x 48″

2017

Part 6 of the “Desi Remix” series, which explores the past by reimagining India’s rich history of mythology, epics, and folktales by juxtaposing feminist icons onto Western classical paintings. (Inspired by “The Murder of Paolo & Francesca” by Joseph Noel Patton) 

Mohini is the female avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu. She is known for being an enchantress and for driving lovers to madness. Her name itself is derived from the verb moha, meaning “to enchant, perplex, or disillusion” and the literal translation of her name means “delusion personified”. 

In addition to this, Mohini also has a destructive side known for slaying demons. One day, she intervenes when she sees the ash demon, Bhasmasura, who has the ability to turn anyone to ash by touching their head, misuse his power on the very god who granted him this ability. Upon seeing Mohini approach him, Bhasmasura is so enamored by her that he immediately asks for her hand in marriage. Mohini agrees, but only on the condition that he mimics her moves in a dance. As she precedes to charm him she cleverly places her hand on top of her head. So entranced, he unknowingly repeats the move and reduces himself to ashes.

This visual representation shows a more metaphorical depiction of the 2 sides of Mohini. On one hand you see her as the enchantress, pure, seductive, and deceivingly innocent in white and on the other hand you see her as the demon slayer, ruthless and unmerciful in red.